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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
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Three-Dimensional Bone Extracellular Matrix Model for Osteosarcoma
Published on: April 12, 2019
Extraskeletal osteosarcoma associated with retained surgical sponge in a dog
Margaret A Miller1, Rhonda L Aper, Amy Fauber
1Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. pegmiller@purdue.edu
Summary
A retained surgical sponge caused a rare osteosarcoma in a Labrador Retriever 9 years after surgery. Despite removal, the tumor recurred, leading to euthanasia.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Surgical Complications
- Canine Oncology
Background:
- Retained surgical sponges can lead to gossypiboma (textiloma), a foreign-body granuloma.
- Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor, rarely associated with foreign materials.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old Labrador Retriever developed a soft tissue mass near the stifle joint.
- The mass was diagnosed 9 years post-surgery for a cranial cruciate ligament rupture.
Findings:
- Radiographs revealed linear foreign material, consistent with a retained sponge (gossypiboma).
- Histopathology confirmed cotton gauze fibers associated with granulomatous inflammation and extraskeletal osteosarcoma.
- Surgical excision was performed, but local recurrence occurred within 3 months.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare association between retained surgical sponges and extraskeletal osteosarcoma in dogs.
- Early detection and complete removal of gossypibomas are crucial to prevent complications.
- Further research is needed to understand the oncogenic potential of chronic foreign material in soft tissues.
